WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) submitted comments to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative outlining an equitable and sustainable trade framework for the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). In 2015, the CPC released Principles for Trade to ensure our trade agreements prioritize working class families over corporations and expand critical labor, environmental, and consumer protections.
The comments read in part:
Trade agreements should create a net increase of good American jobs, spur more balanced trade between partners, and improve governance, public health, and environmental protections around the world. The Congressional Progressive Caucus believes the following principles can ensure fairer trade agreements by prioritizing middle-class families and removing special protections and privileges for corporations:
· Protect Congress’ Authority to Set Trade Policy
· Restore Balanced trade
· Put Workers First
· Stop Currency Manipulation
· Expand Buy America Procurement Practices
· Protect the Environment for Future Generations
· Prioritize Consumers above Profits
· Protect Nationhood Rights
· Secure Affordable Access to Essential Medicines and Services
· Respect Human Rights
· Provide a Safety Net for Vulnerable Workers
To read the CPC’s full comments, click here.
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The Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) is the largest caucus within the House Democratic Caucus, with over 70 members standing up for progressive ideals in Washington and throughout the country. Since 1991, the CPC has advocated for progressive policies that prioritize working Americans over corporate interests, fight economic and social inequality, and promote civil liberties. The CPC champions progressive policy solutions like comprehensive immigration reform, a $15 national minimum wage, fair trade, gun violence reform, debt-free college, and making the federal government a Model Employer.
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